Ireland -- it’s a land of breathtaking scenery, from the soft waves of rolling emerald hillsides to the harsh and severe edges of tall white cliffs. It’s a land far older than most, where the castles and churches of centuries gone by sit side by side with the shops, restaurants and hotels of the present. Located in the mid-western part of Ireland, the Shannon region is full of the stunning landscapes and amazing attractions for which the country has become famous.
The Shannon region covers the counties of Clare, Limerick, North Tipperary, and South Offaly, and can be reached easily by land, air or sea. Travelers can fly directly into Shannon Airport, or come by ferry or car from Cork. Shannon is also known for its efficient railway service and uncrowded highways, so visitors can take their time enjoying a scenic ride into the area.
The rich history of Ireland is often told in its buildings, and Shannon is no exception. Churches, castles and forts dot the landscape, each marking the existence of the cultures and civilizations who settled this amazing island. An absolute must-see in Shannon is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Built in the 1400’s, Bunratty is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in the country. The castle itself is available for tours, and is richly decorated with tapestries and furnishings of the 1600’s.
After its restoration in the 1950’s, the Folk Park was added on as a way to educate visitors about life in a nineteenth-century Irish village. Because it is a complete working historical village, guests can watch as artisans in period costume bake bread, work the iron forge, and run the mill. Check the schedule ahead of time, because in the evenings, the castle area is sometimes used for medieval banquets – truly a sight to see!
For a glimpse of history even older, head to Limerick for a tour of King John’s Castle on the River Shannon. This Anglo-Norman castle, built around the year 1200, includes not only historical exhibits but also archeological excavation sites. Some of the structures unearthed in the digging predate the castle itself, and mines from a siege in 1642 have been discovered as well. For the 13th century, King John’s Castle had some unusual – and pioneering – architectural features. Be sure to explore the massive gatehouse and corner towers.
A number of churches and monasteries can be seen and visited in Shannon, particularly around County Clare, and a number of them were built by the legendary church builder Donal Mor O Brien. The Killone Augustinian Convent in Clarecastle, the Ennis Friary, and the Carran church in Ballyvaughan are all prime examples of traditional architecture of medieval times.
Once you’ve explored some of the Shannon region’s incredible historical sites, try visiting one of the many museums in the area. In Limerick, the Hunt Museum is home to one of the largest private collection of antiquities and art in Ireland, including paintings by Picasso and Renoir. The Hunt displays showcase Ireland’s history from the Neolithic period to the 20th century.
The Killaloe Heritage Centre in County Clare is the site of the Brian Boru museum. This early High King of Ireland fought off the Vikings, and was the great ancestor of the Clan O’Brian. The Boru Centre offers visitors the history of the Shannon River, as well as the changes in Ireland as the island converted from paganism to Christianity.
If you’d like to research your own Irish roots, no trip to Shannon is complete without stopping at the Clare Heritage and Genealogical Centre. Exhibits take visitors on a journey to the turbulent nineteenth century, a time of famine and massive waves of emigration. The Centre also boasts a comprehensive collection of research materials, essential for anyone wanting to trace their Irish family history.
For the outdoorsman in all of us, Shannon is full of golf courses, fishing expeditions, and equestrian activities. Over thirty golf courses dot the landscape of the region, including the dunes of the championship course at Limerick Golf and Country Club. For links with some history, be sure to visit Dromoland Golf Club in County Clare. The magnificent eighteen holes traverse the scenic parkland of Dromoland Estate, and will take you right past the recently renovated Dromoland Castle.
Shannon has over 400 miles of Atlantic coast, so it’s no surprise that angling is a popular pastime in the region, for visitors and natives alike. Lakes and rivers fill the landscape, and charter boats and private fishing guides are available at just about every town on the water. Many inns and bed and breakfasts offer tips on local fishing holes, so ask your innkeeper where the best spots are for angling. From brown trout to pike, Atlantic salmon to the offshore shark, there are fishing excursions available for visitors of every skill level.
Ireland is known for its love of horses, and nowhere is the horse more revered than in the Shannon region. No less than ten equestrian centers offer riding for guests around Shannon, and there is a seemingly endless selection of riding trails and bridle paths available. The Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre specializes in family-oriented rides, and offers lessons for small groups, welcoming beginners as well as experienced riders. Ballycormac House and Stables have riding and dressage lessons, and in the winter time, guests can even join in a fox hunt – the owner is a master with the Golden Vale hounds.
Before leaving Shannon, be sure to stop at some of the incredible shopping spots, so you can bring a bit of Ireland home with you. Craft stores can be found in nearly any small town or village, offering the wares of local artists and merchants. Ballymorris Pottery in Cratloe offers ceramic ware as well as pottery lessons for visitors. McKernan Handweavers is a family-run business in Tuamgraney which creates some true artwork on late nineteenth century looms. McKernan’s shawls and scarves are a beautiful example of one of Ireland’s oldest trades. Quinn’s Craftshop in Ballyvaughan is more than just a craft shop. It’s a clearinghouse for some of Ireland’s most magnificent handmade goods, including lovely Aran handknits and stunning silver jewelry.
Ireland is a land of ancient civilizations blending with modern ways, a cultural paradox. There are enough attractions in the Shannon region to keep any traveler busy for the duration of their stay. From the breathtaking scenery of the Atlantic coast to the lush hills and green fields of the inland, the sights and experiences of a visit to Shannon will create memories that last a lifetime.
